Illinois Basketball: 5 transfers who could help the Illini next season

5. Austin Vereen

Again, I am focusing on players who can put the ball in the hoop. I want someone who can score the ball at a high clip when called upon. I think someone who could be a perfect fit with the Illini is Austin Vereen.
Vereen is a 6-foot-4, 190-pound guard from Washington, DC. He spent three seasons with the VMI Keydets. This past season, he dealt with some injuries and eventually redshirted so he didn’t use a year of eligibility. He is now a graduate transfer looking for a new home.

In Vereen’s final season with VMI, he averaged 27.1 minutes and, in that time, he put up 10.4 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game. He started to develop into a three-point shooter as well. He was 36-percent from the field and 34.3-percent from three-point range. This kid has the confidence to drain a bucket, and I want that on the Illinois basketball team.

I haven’t read anything about where Vereen could be going or who has contacted him, but I would be a fan of the Illini pursuing him in the transfer market. He could come in and be a solid back up to Trent Frazier at the No. 2 spot.

As of right now, I don’t think Illinois has enough scoring on their bench. They don’t have the talent to continue any momentum when the second rotation comes in. Adding a player like Vereen would bridge the talent gap between first and second rotations.

Hopefully, Illinois can get in on the Vereen transfer. This kid can put points on the board and that is what I am looking for. He would be a solid addition to this team.